Top tips to avoid trouble in transit this holiday season
According to the state-wide survey, one in three Queenslanders (33%) have experienced tension or an argument during a road trip, with backseat drivers, messy eaters and complaining passengers listed as the top three pet peeves.
RACQ General Manager Automotive and Mobility Services Mark Boswell said preparation and patience were critical for avoiding the common frustrations that can come up on a road trip.
“We understand that long periods spent in the car can be stressful, particularly when it comes to entertaining children, caring for pets or simply maintaining social etiquette on a long trip,” Mr Boswell said.
“Preparation is essential ahead of any holiday, which includes making sure you have planned your route, and rest stops, and your passengers are comfortable.
“If you are travelling for long distances with children, ensure they’re set up with activities, audiobooks or music so they don’t distract you while driving.”
The latest findings come as Queensland’s peak motoring body lists the State’s top breakdown hotspots and urges drivers to prepare their vehicles before the holiday rush.
Between January and October 2025, RACQ attended to 87 breakdowns a day (on average) across the State’s major motorways and highways – a number which will likely increase over the summer holidays when these roads become key holiday thoroughfares.
The Bruce Highway topped the list with an average of 24 calls per day for assistance, followed by the Pacific Motorway with an average of 12 callouts. Caboolture and Slacks Creek also emerged as common breakdown locations. Mr Boswell said these insights serve as a timely reminder for motorists to get their car checked before hitting the road.
“Concerningly, our research found only 40% of Queenslanders take their car to a mechanic for a check-up or service before heading on a road trip,” Mr Boswell said.
“If you are heading away on a road trip, brushing up on basic car maintenance, or opting for a check-up at your mechanic can go a long way in preventing an unplanned breakdown.
“Checking tyre pressure and condition, monitoring oil, and water levels, ensuring windscreen washer fluid is topped up and your lights are working are all things you can easily do yourself.
“When travelling with a trailer or caravan, conduct the same inspections, ensure your total load complies with weight regulations, and confirm that the bearings are properly maintained.
“If you do require assistance during the holiday period, RACQ will be available to help Queenslanders 24/7.”
Between January and October 2025, RACQ Roadside Assistance responded to 15,143 calls for help on the Bruce Highway, Pacific Motorway, Warrego Highway, Gold Coast Highway and Cunningham Highway.
*Survey findings from RACQ Quarterly Consumer Omnibus, FY26 Q2, n=503
Breakdown hotspots on Queensland's major motorways and highways (January - October 2025):
|
Highway/Motorway |
Suburb with the most callouts |
| Bruce Highway |
Caboolture |
| Pacific Motorway |
Slacks Creek |
| Warrego Highway | Hatton Vale |
| Gold Coast Highway | Palm Beach |
| Cunningham Highway | Aratula |
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